Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Organic Sacred Basil

Q: Is Holy Basil safe for long-term use?

While generally considered safe, long-term use requires further investigation to clarify potential effects and interactions.

Q: What is the recommended timing for taking Holy Basil?

Holy Basil can be taken twice daily, with or without food, but optimal timing has not been extensively studied.

Q: What benefits can I expect from using Holy Basil?

Expected benefits include reduced stress, improved sleep quality, and potential positive effects on blood glucose and lipid levels.

Q: Can Holy Basil replace my medications?

No, Holy Basil should not be considered a substitute for prescribed medications; consult a healthcare provider before use.

Also known as: Ocimum tenuiflorum, Tulsi, Sacred Basil, Holy Basil

Overview

Holy Basil (*Ocimum tenuiflorum*), also known as Tulsi or Sacred Basil, is an aromatic herb indigenous to the Indian subcontinent, celebrated within Ayurvedic medicine for its adaptogenic properties. This herb is rich in bioactive compounds, particularly eugenol and rosmarinic acid, which contribute to its various health-promoting effects. Traditionally, Holy Basil is used for stress management, enhancing sleep quality, and overall well-being. Recent research indicates its potential in managing metabolic health, especially regarding blood glucose and lipid profiles. However, clinical evidence remains in early stages, often characterized by smaller studies that lack definitive recommendations on long-term use or specific dosages. Therefore, continued research is necessary to fully understand its therapeutic applications and safety profile.

Benefits

Holy Basil presents several evidence-based health benefits: 1) **Stress Reduction**: A randomized controlled trial (RCT) found that a daily intake of 250 mg of Holy Basil extract significantly reduced stress and improved sleep quality over 8 weeks (p = 0.003 for stress, p = 0.025 for sleep). 2) **Blood Glucose Control**: Systematic reviews of animal studies show a significant reduction in blood glucose levels for diabetic subjects receiving basil leaf extract (p < 0.00001). 3) **Lipid Profile Improvement**: Evidence indicates that Holy Basil can enhance lipid profiles, particularly when used with medications such as fenofibrate. 4) **Anticancer Activity**: Preliminary findings suggest possible anticancer properties of Holy Basil extracts, primarily observed in animal studies. The most pronounced benefits are seen in populations experiencing chronic stress, though more rigorous clinical trials are required to validate these findings across diverse groups.

How it works

Holy Basil functions through several mechanisms, including its adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It influences the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis to regulate stress responses effectively. Key compounds like eugenol and rosmarinic acid modulate inflammatory and glucose metabolism pathways, thereby enhancing the herb's stress-relieving and metabolic benefits. The hydroalcoholic extract form promotes optimal absorption, ensuring efficient delivery of therapeutic effects.

Side effects

Holy Basil is generally regarded as safe for short-term use, with limited adverse effects reported in clinical trials; however, the long-term safety profile remains uncertain. Documentation on common side effects occurring in over 5% of subjects is lacking; rare side effects may occur but are not well characterized. Caution is advised when using Holy Basil with blood thinners and antidiabetic medications due to possible interactions. Additionally, pregnant and breastfeeding women are discouraged from using it due to insufficient safety data. Consulting healthcare professionals prior to starting supplementation is essential for children and individuals with serious health concerns.

Dosage

Current research indicates a minimum effective dose of 250 mg of Holy Basil per day, as shown by an RCT highlighting significant health benefits. While optimal dosing ranges are not firmly established, recommendations suggest taking the extract twice daily, regardless of food intake. The literature does not provide robust guidelines for maximum safe dosages or long-term dosing strategies, but standardized hydroalcoholic extracts are preferred for their bioactive content. Studies exploring absorption factors and potential absorption-enhancing cofactors remain limited.